Lovage supplements: what they do and how to use them

Ever tried lovage? It looks and tastes like a stronger celery. People have used lovage (Levisticum officinale) for digestion, mild fluid retention, and to flavor food. As a supplement it shows up as teas, capsules, tinctures, and essential oil. This page gives clear, practical advice so you know what to expect and how to use lovage safely.

Common uses and what to expect

Lovage is most often used for tummy issues—bloating, mild indigestion, and slow digestion. It’s also taken as a mild diuretic to help the body remove extra water. Some people use lovage for respiratory congestion or to ease menstrual cramping. If you use it in cooking, the leaves and stems add a savory, celery-like flavor that’s great in soups and stews.

As a supplement, don’t expect dramatic results overnight. Think of lovage as a gentle herbal tool: it can help support digestion and fluid balance in people who respond well to botanical remedies. If you need strong medical treatment for any condition, lovage shouldn’t replace what your doctor prescribes.

Forms, typical dosing, and choosing a product

Lovage comes in a few common forms:

• Tea: 1–2 teaspoons of dried lovage per cup, steeped 5–10 minutes. Drink 1–3 cups daily.
• Capsules: often 300–500 mg of dried root or leaf extract. Many people take these 1–3 times daily with food.
• Tincture: a liquid extract. Typical herbal dosing ranges from 1–2 ml, 2–3 times per day, but follow the label.
• Essential oil: used externally or in tiny amounts for flavoring — not for casual internal use unless directed by a trained practitioner.

When picking a supplement, look for a reputable brand, clear labeling (part of the plant used, extraction method), and third-party testing if possible. Prefer products that state the botanical name (Levisticum officinale) so you know you’re getting the right plant.

Start with a low dose and watch how your body reacts. If you’re using lovage tea in food, try a small portion first to gauge flavor and tolerance.

Safety first: avoid lovage if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have kidney disease, low blood pressure, or take diuretics or blood-thinning medicines, check with your healthcare provider before using lovage. People with allergies to celery, parsley, or other members of the carrot family may react to lovage.

Want more about supplements? See our pieces on rose geranium oil, black mulberry, and lentinan for other natural options or contact your clinician for personalized advice.

If you’re curious and cautious, lovage can be a useful, flavorful addition to your herbal toolkit. Talk to your healthcare provider if you plan to use it regularly or alongside prescription meds.